Welcome to our Podcast
SOMETHING POSITIVE FOR POSITIVE PEOPLE
Since 2017, the SPFPP podcast has been a free resource for people navigating the emotional, relational, and social impacts of a herpes diagnosis. Through candid conversations, guests share what life looks like after testing positive—how they date, disclose, manage shame, and build relationships. You’ll hear experiences from others that reflect your own or reveal new options for moving forward.
What we talk about
Dating with Herpes
From casual sex to long-term commitment, guests share how they communicate their status and build relationships that work for them.Stigma & Identity
How people reclaim their sense of self after diagnosis and rebuild confidence on their own terms.Sexual Health
Tools for navigating safer sex, honest communication, and deeper relational alignment.Alternative Relationship Styles
Non-monogamy, queerness, and connecting beyond traditional relationship norms.Emotional Healing
Stories of grief, growth, and self-acceptance. Often, herpes is the distraction—not the root. These episodes explore the deeper patterns that diagnosis reveals.
If you’re ready to share your experience (anonymously or publicly), please fill out the podcast guest intake form below, and we’ll reach out to interview you!
Looking for something in particular?
Search below for anything you’re curious about, and don’t hesitate to contact us if you can’t find what you’re looking for.
I began consuming your podcast like it was water after walking through the desert for days. I was practically catatonic from the blow of my diagnosis, and I didn't know where to turn. I was in those initial stages of grief—somewhere between shock, denial, and anger. I won't say I was suicidal, but I did have the thought that if I died, it wouldn't really matter because my life was practically over anyway. Some months later, I learned about your SPFPP Herpes Stigma Conference in May 2024 and registered for it. I can now say I've survived one of the most difficult periods of my life—and now I'm thriving.
—J.
SPFPP 313: Luck of the Irish
Join us in episode 313 of SPFPP as we explore the impactful story of a young Irish traveler navigating life with herpes. His candid discussion sheds light on the power of supportive relationships in facing health challenges and destigmatizing conditions like herpes. This episode serves as a bridge for connections and understanding, particularly among Irish listeners and beyond.
SPFPP 312: Kink as a Treatment for Trauma with Marla Stewart
Marla Stewart, a seasoned sexologist and Sex Down South co-founder, goes into the therapeutic aspects of kink, discussing its role in navigating trauma and enhancing intimacy.
SPFPP 311: Zero Proof Identity Crisis
In Episode 311, Laura from Zero Proof Nation shares her poignant journey with Something Positive for Positive People, from grappling with a herpes diagnosis post-assault to embracing her bisexual identity and sobriety. This episode delves into the deep emotional challenges and the broader discourse beyond a herpes diagnosis, shedding light on personal growth and vulnerability.
SPFPP 310: Challenging Your Triggers AND Mine
In Episode 310 of Something Positive for Positive People, Courtney delves into the crucial lessons learned about personal boundaries and self-care. This episode not only explores the journey of self-improvement but also highlights upcoming events such as the five-year anniversary virtual conference of SPFPP. Discover how setting firm boundaries can lead to personal and community growth, and learn how you can participate in enriching discussions and support groups dedicated to navigating herpes stigma.
SPFPP 309: Feeding Your Inner Child
Bette Minou shares her journey with borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, and her experience living as a pansexual individual in a polyamorous relationship. This episode goes beyond herpes to tackle various forms of stigma and how they intersect with personal and cultural identities.
SPFPP 308: The Value of Our Needs
Join us in Episode 308 as Mila shares her recent herpes diagnosis and the evolution of her dating philosophy. This episode delves into the cultural and identity aspects of being a pansexual Mexican woman, discussing the complex dynamics of masculinity, femininity, and personal growth. Discover the importance of valuing your needs correctly and how this understanding can contribute positively to the community.
SPFPP 307: Trauma Informed Care is a Team Effort
We discuss the potential for systemic change in healthcare that supports patients comprehensively, aiming to alleviate the mental health burdens associated with STI diagnoses.
SPFPP 306: Bias Ain't a Bad Word
Shaina French discusses the complexities of healthcare, including the constraints of time and insurance, and the vital role of unbiased communication in enhancing patient care.
SPFPP 305: Communication is the Core of STI Minimization
Join us as we delve into the dynamics of stigma and communication within healthcare. A Planned Parenthood Nurse Practitioner shares her experiences and strategies for enhancing patient conversations, aiming to reduce stigma and foster open discussions about sexual health. This episode is crucial for anyone involved in healthcare or interested in sexual health advocacy.
SPFPP 304: The Truth of Stigma
By equipping educatorss with the necessary tools to discuss sexual health openly, we can prevent the cycle of stigma in the next generation.
SPFPP 303: How Doctors Don't Talk About Sex
Kimberly Resnick Anderson sheds light on the reasons behind healthcare providers' reluctance to discuss sex, revealing that time constraints are just the surface of deeper underlying issues.
SPFPP 302: The Prejudice of Stigma
In Episode 302, join host Courtney Brame as he embarks on a new journey of understanding healthcare providers' struggles with stigma in treating STIs. Featuring a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Lourdes Mantecón-Garza.
SPFPP 301: The Absence of Presence
Fran's journey from being identified as a party girl to exploring deeper meanings in life and relationships after her herpes diagnosis.
SPFPP 300: The Dream of a Choice - Celebrating 6 Years of SPFPP
Welcome to six years of SPFPP! Learn how you can get involved.
SPFPP 299: How Do I Disclose My Herpes Status
In this insightful episode of SPFPP, Dr. Evelin Dacker explores the S.T.A.R.S. framework, offering a strategic approach to herpes disclosure and dating.
SPFPP 298: Don't Spend Your Adulthood Healing Your Childhood
“Sexless Sex Education," aiming to integrate real-life experiences into youth education for more effective STD prevention. This episode highlights the importance of providing leadership and direction to our youth, beyond just what not to do, to prevent them from seeking guidance in potentially harmful places.
SPFPP 297: Double Whammy
In Episode 297, SPFPP explores the experiences of a young man newly diagnosed with HIV and HSV. Recorded just days after his diagnosis, this episode offers a raw and insightful look into the initial emotions and reactions that accompany such news. Our guest's mature approach to his identity, separate from his sexuality, provides a powerful narrative for listeners, especially those newly diagnosed or struggling with their health status. Join us to gain understanding and support through his story.
SPFPP 296: Pleasure Identity
Episode 296 of SPFPP brings a profound discussion on pleasure identity with Kit, exploring how herpes and other health conditions shape our engagement with pleasure beyond the physical. This episode unpacks the dynamics between sexual health and mental well-being, highlighting non-traditional forms of intimacy and connection that challenge and enrich our understanding of pleasure.
SPFPP 295: Don't Nobody Care About Herpes
Those of us who do care just need to get involved
SPFPP 294: You Are Who You Think I Am
In this enlightening episode of Something Positive for Positive People, Mike offers a powerful male perspective on herpes disclosure, influenced by a personal conflict that went public. He discusses his estrangement with his sister and how it led to unexpected public exposure. This episode isn't just about herpes; it's about understanding the real-life intersections of health, stigma, and family dynamics. Join us as we delve into these complex relationships and explore broader societal issues through personal stories.